JANUARY 10TH 2017

Our daughter, Kellsie Green, died on January 10th of 2016 from heroin withdrawal complications in an Anchorage jail. Kellsie was just 24 years old.

Kellsie’s mother Kathi and I know the pain and sorrow of those who have lost someone and are grieving. Some of the lost are still living. We know that this is not just our story. On the evening of January 10, 2017, beginning at 6:00 p.m. we will hold a candlelight ceremony to remember and recognize all of those that have been lost to this disease and those whose struggles were never recognized because of the stigma. And to share our love and support to everyone who has lost someone to addiction.

We are asking every city, town and village to participate. We would like to invite all members of every community who have been affected by this epidemic to join us. We would especially like to invite the recovery community to share their experience, strength and hope. It is time to bring awareness, recognition and to make a change, ending opioid abuse. And to say in one voice that addiction is NOT a choice. But rather, a symptom to a disease for which there is a daily reprieve in recovery.

We are also asking that if you would like the name of the one you lost to be read that you please add them or message them to Kellsie’s Key. Names and those communities planning to participate may also be emailed to KellsiesKey@yahoo.com.

The list of names will be shared with all communities participating and will be read during the vigil.

Thank you for your support, for being a light and for your part in ending this epidemic that has taken so much from so many.